A University Had Three Words For People Who Are 'Unhappy' With Its Scholarships For Refugees

"To these people, we would like to say ..."

The U.K.'s University of Reading had a few choice words for critics of its new scholarship plan for refugees. As the school tweeted on Monday, "We've had feedback over the last week that some people are unhappy with our plan to offer up to 14 scholarships to refugees living in the local area."

The university's response to such feedback? Three simple words: "Tough. Jog on." The tweet, which has since earned more than 21,000 retweets and 65,000 likes, also included a link to more information about the scholarships, which will cover students at various levels of study.

We've had feedback over the last week that some people are unhappy with our plan to offer up to 14 scholarships to refugees living in the local area. To these people, we would like to say: Tough. Jog on. https://t.co/ioDLPp5crw

The scholarships were developed in partnership with the Reading Refugee Support Group (RRSG). Gabby Couchman, deputy manager at the organization, said in the university's announcement that the RRSG works with local refugees "who have a strong desire to engage with higher education in the U.K.," many of whom "have had their studies interrupted due to conflict and persecution in their home country."

"Universities are places for people from all over the world and from all walks of life," said Professor Robert Van de Noort. "We welcome to Reading those fleeing violence and persecution in their own countries and we value the contribution those seeking sanctuary can make to the University and the town in general." He added that the university is "proud and unapologetic to offer these scholarships."

The university's tweet earned praise from many on Twitter, some of whom are alumni. Some even asked if they could donate to the program. "Promote whoever is in charge of your social media," wrote one user.

Last month, the school welcomed 50 refugees for its Refugee Scholars Open Day, offering prospective students information about how to apply for the scholarships. As the announcement points out, the University of Reading already works with the Council for At-Risk Academics by welcoming refugee scholars to continue their postgraduate education at the school.